Head - Finance - FMCG/Retail/QSR - CA

Job Title: Head of Finance

Location: Noida

About the Role:

A leading Indian food and beverage company is seeking an experienced Head of Finance to lead the finance function for its fast-growing Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) division. This individual will be a key member of the leadership team, responsible for shaping financial strategy, driving operational efficiency, and enabling sustainable growth-including domestic expansion and international forays (e.g., UK market entry).

The ideal candidate will bring 12-15 years of progressive finance leadership experience, with a strong background in consumer businesses such as QSR, retail, or FMCG. Candidates must have worked in companies with - 2000+ Cr in annual revenue and demonstrate capability in managing finance for multi-unit or franchise-based operations.

Mandatory: Experience in a company with - 1000 Cr+ in annual revenue.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic & Financial Leadership

- Develop and execute the financial strategy aligned with business growth plans, including capital allocation and funding support for expansion initiatives.

- Act as a strategic partner to the Business Head and CXOs, offering financial insights for decision-making at both domestic and international levels.

Financial Operations & Governance

- Oversee all finance and accounts operations including financial reporting, FP&A, treasury, taxation, and compliance.

- Ensure timely book closures, statutory compliance, and implementation of robust financial processes and systems.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Reporting

- Lead annual budgeting and periodic forecasting cycles.

- Set and monitor financial KPIs (revenue, EBITDA, unit economics), and track performance at the outlet, regional, and divisional levels.

- Present key financial reports and performance updates to the executive team and board.

Cost & Profitability Management

- Drive initiatives for cost optimization and margin improvement across outlets.

- Work closely with operations and procurement teams to enhance unit-level profitability and optimize supply chain costs.

Internal Controls & Risk Management

- Build a strong internal control framework, particularly for outlet-level processes (e.g., cash handling, inventory, procurement).

- Manage audit processes and ensure compliance with regulatory and tax obligations, including FDI or overseas regulatory frameworks where relevant.

Team Building & Leadership

- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing finance team capable of supporting a scaling and fast-paced operation.

- Foster a performance-driven culture and develop future finance leaders within the team.

- Support for Strategic Projects & Expansion

- Partner with leadership on strategic initiatives such as market entry, franchise partnerships, or joint ventures.

- Lead financial due diligence, integration, and setup of new geographies or formats.

Candidate Requirements:

Must-Have Qualifications:

- Chartered Accountant (CA) is strongly preferred. MBAs with a solid finance/accounting background will also be considered.

- 12-15 years of experience in finance roles, with at least 5+ years in a leadership position.

- Prior experience in QSR, retail, consumer goods, or hospitality industries.

Functional Expertise:

- Strong command of accounting standards, MIS, audits, and statutory compliance.

- Proficiency in financial modeling, business planning, and performance analytics.

- Proven ability to influence CXOs and Boards using strategic financial insights.

- Leadership & Executional Strength

- Strong team management and mentorship skills.

- Hands-on, entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in fast-changing and high-growth environments.

Desirable:

- Exposure to international markets (e.g., handling overseas subsidiaries, understanding FX, or UK regulatory frameworks).

- Experience in scaling finance functions for new store rollouts, market entries, or franchise operations.

- Familiarity with modern ERPs and financial reporting tools.